Eucalyptus Removal Restoration Project at Morro Dunes Ecological Reserve (Project)

CDFW is issuing a California Endangered Species Act (CESA) permit pursuant to Fish and Game Code section 2081, subdivision (a) to the County of San Luis Obispo (Permit No. 2081(a)-25-016-RP) for a project to remove invasive eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) and restore approximately 0.84 acres of occupied Morro manzanita (Arctostaphylos morroensis) habitat that has been degraded by dense tree growth and accumulated biomass. The objective of the Project is to restore native chaparral habitat, promote long-term persistence of Morro manzanita, and reduce wildfire risk within the Pecho Unit and surrounding reserve lands. Approximately 28 mature eucalyptus trees and associated saplings and stumps across a 2.75-acre work area will be felled and removed using low-impact forestry equipment. Two non-native pine trees may also be removed. Felled material will be chipped, hauled off-site, or, if conditions allow, disposed of through controlled pile burning in coordination with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. Morro manzanita individuals will be protected and avoided to the greatest extent feasible through pre-activity biological surveys, flagging of plants, and establishment of no disturbance buffers around occupied areas. Erosion control measures such as coir logs will be installed to stabilize any disturbed soils, and invasive species management will target eucalyptus resprouts and perennial veldt grass (Ehrharta calycina) using targeted herbicide application that will be applied quarterly if necessary. Following tree removal activities, the site will rely primarily on passive revegetation from the existing Morro manzanita seed bank and adjacent native stands.